A road-legal SUV with a Flight Mode sounds like a cheat code, yet the Defender Dakar is rooted in hardware that already won its class in the desert. The limited-production model translates the D7X-R competition truck into a four-seat flagship positioned beyond the Defender OCTA.

Its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 produces 626 hp and 553 lb-ft, exceeding the restricted output of the rally car. Coil springs replace the regular Defender’s air suspension, working with motorsport-derived Bilstein dampers, a wider track, and 35-inch all-terrain tires on forged 20-inch wheels. Dunes and Gravel programs join Flight Mode, which manages suspension response when the vehicle leaves the ground and lands.

The body makes no attempt to disguise the lineage. A carbon-fiber hood, raised carbon intakes, roof-mounted light pods, riveted arch extensions, and additional underbody protection frame the Dakar Sand and Yanbu Turquoise launch livery.

Inside, a 2+2 layout uses deep competition-style front seats, optional four-point harnesses, helmet storage, an internal spare, and an onboard air compressor. It is more complete than a homologation special, but clearly less concerned with school-run civility than the standard Defender.

Defender is collecting registrations of interest now. Final production numbers, pricing, and specifications are due at the 2027 Dakar Rally, with reservations expected to open in early 2027.